2017 SEAT Ibiza 1.2L Petrol · AF17 TYZ

The 2017 SEAT Ibiza’s most recent MOT test on 2025-12-08 resulted in a passing outcome, with the only recorded defect being a minor failure related to the offside registration plate lamp inoperative, which is a straightforward lighting issue easily rectified. Despite this, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and failures primarily centred on front and rear brake discs showing wear, headlamp alignment issues, and minor suspension and tyre defects. While the vehicle passed most recent tests, the persistence of brake disc advisories—particularly on both front and rear axles—suggests a consistent, if not worsening, wear trend that warrants closer attention. The headlamp alignment failures in 2023 indicate a need for periodic re-adjustment, which could be linked to suspension or mounting wear over time, though the 2024 and 2025 tests suggest these issues have been addressed or are no longer critical. The vehicle’s mileage of 80,677 miles at the time of this assessment represents a typical annual usage rate of around 8,964 miles, which aligns with the expected wear profile for a nine-year-old car with moderate use. The recorded mileage does not suggest either extreme light use (which might indicate prolonged standing and associated corrosion risks) or excessive wear from high annual mileage. However, the absence of service records or a service booklet means any calendar-based fluid degradation—such as brake fluid, differential fluid, or coolant—could be a concern, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the wear already evident in the brake system. The gaps between MOT tests, particularly the 12-month intervals, also raise questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to regular maintenance or if it has been stored for extended periods, potentially accelerating corrosion or fluid degradation. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the brake system and suspension components, given the recurring advisories. The front and rear brake discs showing pitted or scored surfaces indicate that the braking system has experienced significant use, and while they are not yet critically weakened, they may require replacement within the next 12 to 24 months to prevent uneven wear, reduced braking efficiency, or even failure under heavy loads. During a test drive, listen for any uneven brake pedal travel, a pulsating or shuddering sensation when braking, or excessive noise from the rear brakes, which could signal warped discs or binding calipers. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the rear tyres, which may correlate with the rear brake disc advisories. The front track rod end ball joints showing slight play could lead to clunking noises from the suspension when driving over bumps, and this should be addressed to prevent further wear on the suspension bushes and coil springs. Beyond the mechanical issues, the vehicle’s age and mileage make it prudent to perform a thorough inspection of the tyre condition, focusing on sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety. Given the recorded rear tyre advisories from 2022, inspect the tyres for any further signs of damage, such as bulges or cracks, and ensure they meet the minimum legal tread depth. The 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failure from prolonged inactivity or low demand conditions. Finally, verify that all fluids—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid—are within specification and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate component failure. If no service history is available, consider scheduling a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the vehicle’s internal condition, including the engine, transmission, and exhaust system, to identify any hidden issues that may not have been flagged by the MOT tests.